MONTE CARLO, Monaco, Nov. 20, 2005 (PRIMEZONE) -- The world's best poker players have landed in Monaco for Monte-Carlo Millions, the world's most exclusive poker tournament. Phil Ivey, Chris "Jesus" Ferguson, Patrick Bruel, Jennifer Tilly and The Hendon Mob are just a few of the big names vying for a share of the largest prize pool in European poker tournament history. The Prima Network guaranteed $3 million, with a $1 million first prize. The tournament will broadcast to a worldwide television audience on FSN and its broadcast partners beginning in February 2006.
Seats at the Monte-Carlo Millions were acquired in one of two ways: players received a personal invitation from renowned Tournament Director Matt Savage, or won their place through a satellite on a card room on the Prima Network. But no matter how they arrived -- by commercial flight or private jet, in the wake of an illustrious poker career, or on the cusp of a new one -- everyone has undoubtedly unpacked their A-games. The glitz and glamour of Monte-Carlo, this high-roller paradise, practically demands it.
"There is nothing comparable to playing poker in Monte-Carlo," said Tournament Director Matt Savage. "It's everything you ever dreamed poker could be, and more."
Play commences at noon today in The Sporting D'Hiver, located in the heart of Monte-Carlo's Place du Casino. The limited playing field of 120 will begin with stacks of 50,000 tournament chips. Higher starting chip counts require an absolute mastery of No-Limit Hold'em.
As the blinds increase, only those who consistently parlay sound poker decisions with timely, aggressive play will survive, making Monte-Carlo Millions a poker connoisseur's dream: a tournament where skill gets a headstart on luck.
On Nov. 23, when only six players remain, the excitement will move to the legendary Casino de Monte-Carlo for the final table. In this world-famous venue, where no poker tournament has ever been played before, the 2005 champion will be crowned.
To follow the big moves, big busts, heartbreaks and joys of Monte-Carlo Millions, visit www.montecarlomillions.com. A list of registered players can be found on the site, and live blogs will appear throughout the tournament with chip totals, key hands and photographs. The 2004 Monte-Carlo Millions is now airing on FSN -- catch the action through January.
About The Prima Network
The Prima Network is the world's largest online poker network. Powered by Microgaming software, the leading developer of Internet gaming systems, Prima licenses to more than 30 operators worldwide to form a global poker network. The Prima Network ensures that a critical mass of online poker players and a wide variety of games and tournaments are available at all times. Sought by online poker players and operators, the Prima Network symbolizes quality, representing the highest standards in online poker play, fairness, and credibility. For more information, please visit www.primapoker.net